The Best Breweries, Wineries and Distilleries in Northern Virginia

Northern Virginia is home to hundreds of breweries, wineries and distilleries as well as farm-to-table dining, country inns and estates, and charming small towns. Spanning from the Appalachian and Blue Ridge mountains in the west to the Potomac River in the east, this region offers gorgeous scenery and unique settings that are perfect for relaxing and tasting local beer, wine and spirits. At Mount Vernon, George Washington operated the largest whiskey distillery in America during the colonial era. Today, you can visit the reconstructed working distillery there where they continue to make his whiskey. Nearby Loudoun and Prince William Counties are especially known as Virginia wine country and as the beverage industry is expanding across the country, the region is flourishing with many exciting drink purveyors to check out.

Nestled at the foothills of the Bull Run Mountains, the winery offers stunning views and tastings in a beautifully restored 18th-century manor house that is said to be haunted. Stories about the house and its occupants abound including the recurring ghost of a young girl who inhabits one of the upstairs rooms and the spirit of Benoni E. Harrison who lived on the La Grange estate from 1827-1869. The winery opened in 2006 and was the first in Prince William County. The property now includes eight acres of vineyards, the circa 1790 manor house as well as a production facility. The winery produces several varieties of grapes, including Norton, Cabernet and Merlot. The tasting room is open year-round and the property is available to rent for private events.

George Washington distilled corn and rye whiskey and operated a water-powered grist mill near Mount Vernon in Northern Virginia. A reconstruction of the whiskey distillery and grist mill is open to the public and features guided tours led by historical interpreters who explain the 18th century distillery operation. Product tastings are not available onsite, however the distilled spirits are on sale at Shops at Mount Vernon at the estate just three miles away.

Effingham is a historic home and a national historic district located in Prince William County, Virginia offering award winning Virginia wines. The main house dates back to 1767 and was built by William Alexander, a great grandson of John Alexander, the namesake of Alexandria, Virginia. The winery produces nine varieties including their signature wine "King's Ransom," Meritage, Norton, Tannat, Traminette, Merlot, Chardonnay, Rose, and Sparkling wine. The estate has sweeping views of the Virginia countryside and is available to rent for weddings and other events. The winery is adults only; no dogs.

Northern Virginia’s first destination brewery campus is an eight-acre farm that features craft beer, craft food and live, local music. Included in phase one of opening are 2 Silos Brewing Co. and tasting room, The YARD outdoor live music venue, The Pit BBQ and Beer Garden and La Gringa Food Truck. Farm Brew LIVE is part of Innovation Park in Prince William County on the site of the historic Thomasson Barn.

MurLarkey is an American Distilling Institute (ADI) Certified Craft Distilled Spirit producer that is inspired by its Irish heritage and produces gluten free vodka, gin and other craft whiskey. The infused whiskey includes a variety flavors such as cinnamon, banana, cocoa and more. Visitors can tour the Bristow, Virginia facility and learn about the distilling process and try some unique cocktails.

This winery is located at the base of the Short Hill Mountains and is solar powered and LEED certified. From the tasting room to the wine production to the vineyard, they strive to be the most environmentally friendly winery on the planet. They grow a variety of grapes including Viognier and Petit Verdot and create award-winning wines. The tasting room is warm and inviting with views of green farmland. The venue is available for rentals.

While no beer is actually brewed here, this unique new hotspot is one not to be missed. One of Leesburg’s newest restaurants, Delirium Cafe is the first US location for this Belgium-based favorite known for its iconic pink elephant symbol. The bar features the full Delirium Tremens lineup along with nearly 300 beers from around the world, including many local favorites, and 26 beers on tap. The menu includes foods produced and grown locally as well as French-Belgian inspired cuisine. The Leesburg cafe is the first US location for the highly regarded international chain of beer-focused cafés in Belgium.

This buddha-themed microbrewery and taproom serves a variety of craft beers ranging from double IPA to farmhouse-style ale to German lager to Belgian. The food menu includes flatbreads, soft pretzels, cheese flights and other bar food. The ambiance is casual and its a great spot for happy hour in Downtown Purcellville.

Nestled between the foothills of the Blue Ridge and Short Hill Mountains, Breaux Vineyards is one of Virginia's largest wine producers and an award-winning winery. The estate offers a tasting room, winery tours, events, and live music. The vineyard is an ideal setting for weddings and other events with panoramic views of rolling vineyards and multiple venues to accommodate up to 400 guests.

Located on the historic Widewater Peninsula in the northern tip of Stafford County, Virginia, the Mediterranean estate evokes an ambiance of Tuscany. With a romantic atmosphere, award winning wines and a full menu served at Le Grand Cru Bistro, this winery is one not to miss. The winery offers Sunday brunch served in the beautiful D’Vine lounge, Outdoor Courtyard or Veranda with seating overlooking an Italian water feature. Potomac Point offers a calendar of events throughout the year and offers a variety of event spaces to rent for special events accommodating up to 200 guests.